Tag Archives: Banana Republic Sale

Today we begin with a look at the Banana Republic collection for next Spring, with a continued emphasis on classic looks.

Robert Mitra/WWD

The color palette adhered to the neutrals the company is know for.

But the collection is a tad more lighthearted, or whimsical, according to a brief review of the line in WWD.

“Its spring collection… highlighted relaxed, well-worn looks in denim, chambray, cotton and silk. “We got overassorted in work,” said firm president Jack Calhoun. “We were too serious. We’re still a work brand, but we want to have great weekend and going-out clothes, too.”

We actually found some of the men’s styles more appealing, not unusual here at the Prepatorium, especially when it comes to sweaters of a snuggly nature.

The silhouette is looser, much easier than in previous collections, although the skinny pant remains a ‘must’ for the line.

As we are chatting about BR, we want to mention they do have a significant amount of merchandise marked down on the website, with lots of goodies. The Helen Buckle Peep-toe is one such item on sale, as are the Bow Jewel Earrings.

We can’t help ourselves when it comes to sharing Sales and Savings opportunities.

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We have a quick update to last week’s post on the upcoming Olsenboye line Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are doing for Penneys: the footwear and accessories will be made by Steve Madden.

Courtesy Photo via WWD

The accessories will be available online in time for the holidays.

Courtesy Photo via WWD

Price points are expected to run between $20 – $50.

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Have you read about the recently launched Ralph Lauren Gift Vault? The new line offers “…a specially curated collection of rare and unique objects from the world of Ralph Lauren.”

As the news release explains:

“The Ralph Lauren Gift Vault is the perfect destination for the discerning gift giver looking for something extraordinary for someone truly unique or even for themselves.”

The offerings are in different categories, like Americana, Estate or Hollywood Glamour.

This one will be interesting to watch: brilliant marketing or over-extension of the brand? Hhhmmm.

In an entirely different vein, the Polo Ralph Lauren ‘Private Sale’ promotion gets underway Thursday (the 5th), offering many items at 40% off their original retail price. To receive an additional 15% off, use promo code NOV0509 at checkout.

Basics like the Elani Suede Ballet Flats are already discounted to $69, an additional 15% off that price might make them rather appealing for those in need of another pair of flats.

The bag comes in both Blue and Strawberry and initially sold at $79.50; it is now $49.99. Several styles of belts are also marked down, below we show the Dragonfly Outrigger Belt, and on the right, the Pineapple Outrigger.

One lucky person will be the winning of a complete suite of our incredible Whitney English Crested stationery. Just click here and scroll down to enter by leaving a contest comment. Don’t wait too long though, entries close at midnight tonight (Tuesday, 11/3/09) and we’ll announce the winner in tomorrow’s blog!

Happy-Happy almost-weekend everybody! Here at the Prepatorium we finally have something resembling normal temperatures: we might hit 75 degrees today. Calm yourselves, it has not yet happened, it is merely a prediction made by the Weatherologists on teewee, so there’s just an itty-bitty chance they could be wrong.

Regular readers are aware we feel strongly about the virtues of basics upon which one can construct a meaningful existence: basic decency towards others, basic recipes, basic apparel and accessories.

One such elementary item is a simple watch on a classic ribbon band. Today we bring you a new entrant to this sector of the market:

Bobby Jones

The new watch from Bobby Jones is just out. It has a stainless steel case and comes in two additional striped ribbon patterns, as well as a solid black ribbon for those preferring a more understated look. (TP’s father wore a plain Timex with a plain black ribbon strap as far back as she can remember.)

The movement is by Seiko, so this one isn’t just a pretty face. It is available now at the Bobby Jones Shop.

Not to be left out, Brooks Brothers is promoting some solid discounts on Men’s merchandise for Father’s Day.

Brooks Brothers

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Our next company covered is assuredly not known for helping one save their pocket change; we quite respect that policy. We’re talking about Hermès.

Hermes

The luxury firm has opened a seasonal store in East Hampton. The shop is located right on Main, will be open until Sept. 20, and will carry some limited edition goods.

PHOTO: Skot Yobbagy/WSJ Magazine

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In another SOTT (Sign of The Times), word from P&G that Max Factor cosmetics will no longer be sold in the US.

PHOTO: WWD Staff

Today’s story in WWD about the planned phase-out quotes an unnamed P&G executive:

“It’s a shadow of what it once was. Domestically it’s just so competitive. They have lost considerable real estate over the years and certainly over the last two years. It’s actually long overdue.”

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Because we adore The Queen (we more-than-adore our own TQM but today we speak of the one on the far side of the pond,), we thought we would close out the post with this photo, perfectly suited to be today’s Pretty in Pink.

PHOTO: Phil Noble/AFP/Getty

The picture of HRH and Prince Philip dates to late May, and we think she looks faboo.

“Its preppy, casual clothes are worn by actresses, housewives – and First Ladies. So why can’t we buy J. Crew in Britain?”

The story looked at similarities between J. Crew stateside and British equivalents like Jigsaw (womenswear), and Racing Green (menswear).

“J. Crew’s… careful mix of the sort of casual and preppy items you find at Gap (like jeans, chinos and basic T-shirts), the smarter pieces from Jigsaw (workwear and smart separates), and the prettier, dressy pieces at Whistles …. Except all these styles are under one roof, and ever so slightly cheaper.”

Jigsaw actually uses US-centric names to market some merchandise; every hat on their website this spring is named after an American city: the Chapel Hill hat, the Kentucky Straw Trilby, etc. Below, a look from Jigsaw look that appears très Banana Republic to us; what do you think?

Jigsaw

Jigsaw’s pure Cashmere Trim Cardigan also has the classic look many of us are fond of, timeless fashions that are always in style.

Jigsaw

The article details the frustration felt by Crew’s UK fans:

“J. Crew is basically what Next and Racing Green never quite managed to be for us, and what Marks & Spencer consistently fails to achieve: it’s chic and classy, with a pretty, trendy edge that that doesn’t look cheap, frumpy or too outlandish… And it’s infuriating once you get into the habit of it, because you can’t buy it over here, nor does J. Crew ship to the UK. “

Well, this is no fun for our friends on the far side of the pond.

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In light of this weekend’s wild play in Augusta (how fun was that?!) we thought we would share a few lines from The Augusta Chronicle. The paper’s story on spring fashion trends quotes students at Augusta Prep, like Laura Lemley:

“More noticeable are the empty storefronts, which have started popping up even on Worth Avenue, the home of a Saks Fifth Avenue, a Chanel and an Hermès, to name just a few.”

“Caterers are finding that charity galas, long the core of the Palm Beach social scene, are either canceled or sparsely attended. We’re getting fewer requests for lobster and caviar,” says Charlie Crawford of the White Apron Catering Company, “and a lot more for mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese.”

Yikes.

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There are multiple sales and clearances underway at many of our favorite shops; we shall effort updates on them throughout the week. If you have any to suggest, do let us know so we can share with the rest of the class.

The tote’s price is reduced approximately 30% from the original $130; it is now offered at $89.99.

Saks starts pre-sale today for their Friends and Family event that begins this Thursday, running through Sunday the 19th. The sale offers 15% off cosmetics & fragrances, an unheard of 20% off jewelry and 25% off just about everything else. The Coupon Code to use at checkout is SFAFAM8. (Some brands are excluded in the jewelry category, but it is still a remarkable discount for a major retailer to offer.)

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In light of the spring season and cheerier spirits, we wanted to share some Good News of our own here at the Prepatorium:

Scout Good News Bagette Tote

We are so excited to finally have all of our Good News merchandise in stock from Bungalow Scout, including the Bagette Tote seen above. The pattern features fun words and phrases with a bit of camp, like ‘sunshine’ and ‘my-t fine’ and ‘Sure!’, to name a few. It is one of of our most popular Scout patterns, selling out with amazing speed.

The Bagette totes are great bags, the perfect size to replace paper/plastic at the market, 15″ x 12″ x 12″, with dual handles allowing one to carry it over the shoulder or by the handles. We aren’t sure which is better, the fact Bagettes are only $20 at the Princess, or knowing these are collapsible for easy storage.

With such “Good News” it seems appropriate that we make our exit. Team Princess sends everyone wishes for a blissful afternoon and evening!

We must be candid dolls, the pink is looking a little neon for us….yes? We just discovered the Betsyville Baylee Flat, available in several different colorways.

Another strong point for the Baylee, its fiscally friendly price, $62 at Shoes.com. There are many other pair from Betseyville with a similar look, all with the nautical little button. These are the Brinda Sandals in pink patent.

We learned that Target is offering shoppers a very attractive collection of Limited Edition Beach Towels designed by contemporary artists. The artists featured include Raymond Pettibon; how gorgeous will this be when you and Mister Wonderful spread it out across the sand?

Raymond Pettibon at Target.com

The towels are $50 and only available on line, not in stores.

These beauties are also available at Works on Whatever, a fundraising group attempting to raise art awareness.

In other Target news, we are terribly slow in talking about Target’s next collaborations, including the upcoming collection from swimwear designer Ashley Paige. Yes, this is cable TV’s “Ashley Paige: Bikini or Bust,” of TLC reality show notoriety.

Above, two swimsuits currently for sale, the Deep Diver at $380 and on the right, the Gold Digger at $460. (Those two names for the swimsuits really belong in the “I Couldn’t Possibly Make This Stuff Up” category. Honestly.)

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The retail marketplace is really heading into a frenzied unlike any we have previously , and as readers know, we are no spring chicken. Here is a sampling of the offerings from our electronic in-bin; all are clickable to make it easier for you to get started on any last-minute shopping:

Kate Spade

As predicted, J. Crew is continuing their markdowns, offering merchandise at up to 60% off. They are also providing complimentary shipping, regardless of the amount one spends, a new twist for the retailer.

J. Crew

Use promo code HURRY for the shipping promotion. And despite their disclaimer on the main website saying the “60% off is not applicable in J. Crew Factory Stores,” there is also a 60% off promotion in progress at their outlet stores.

“On Cyber Monday, which fell on the first of the month this year, J. Crew was down for at least six hours and Bloomingdale’s was also out. J. Crew was back up Tuesday, but has had ongoing problems since, including some downtime Monday afternoon.”

Polo Ralph Lauren is also providing complimentary shipping on all orders, but here is the beauty of their offer:

“If you choose to ship Standard Ground and are shipping to multiple addresses, you will receive free shipping on all shipping destinations.”

And that is a beautiful thing for anyone how may be struggling to finish up their shopping, needing presents to go to different locations. Sadly, our affection for their aggressive shipping promotion is tainted by this:

RalphLauren.com

Shocked by our initial sighting of the dreadful creation, overcome with sorrow for the poor pooch, we were even more horrified when reading the description:

“Reversible diamond-quilted vest with preppy heritage details…”

“Preppy Heritage?” In a word? Not. Heh-heh-heh. (If this is something you find appealing for Fifi, just click on the photo above and you are there.)

For anyone near Bloomie’s this afternoon (the 18th), pop in for a special Lilly Pulitzer event. Remember our photos of the special Lilly Steinway anniversary piano from this post?

Courtesy Photo

Splashed in pink, yellow and green Hibiscus, the piano is part of the Lilly 50th Anniversary celebration and it will be on hand during today’s event at Bloomingdale’s. Artists from the Lilly design team will also be on hand creating a special print inspired by suggestions from anyone willing to offer input!

The fashion comet known as Thakoon (formally Thakoon Panichgul) continues to fly high with word he is launching a new line, “Thakoon Addition.” As seen in the WWD story:

“… a new capsule collection… a supplementary line with May-June and November-December deliveries, which will be inspired by some of the designer’s most popular designs, and sit alongside the main collection. The suggested retail price points for the line will range from about $495 for a top to $825 for dresses.”

This is not connected with the Thakoon for Target Resort collection, now slated to hit stores December 28. The previous release date was December 25, an absolutely absurd day to launch the line; the 28th is far more reasonable. Below, one of the looks from that group.

Courtesy Thakoon

The News-Observer (Raleigh-Durham) makes some intriguing observations on the upcoming Target collection:

“His look for Target is J. Crew meets Anthropologie, with a heavy-handed mix of stripes and florals — a look that’s expected to be big for spring. He was generous in using colors traditionally found at J. Crew — where he was once a merchandiser — including canary yellow, Kelly green and navy.”

The writer, Samantha Smith, is always a great read; she also does an excellent blog. It appears fashionistas will see the designer’s work at Target long before knowing if he is doing any Inaugural Day fashions for Michelle Obama, or even Sasha or Malia.

In our ‘Preppy on Sale’ update, Brooks Brothers has substantial inventory in their online Clearance section, including most Handbags and Shoes at 70% off. They are also doing their Golden Fleece Foundation through tomorrow (Thursday, 12.12.08) night.

Courtesy Brooks Brothers

Shoppers using their Brooks Brothers Platinum MonsterCard MasterCard or Brooks card will receive a 25% discount on their purchases; those using any other form of payment enjoy a %15 savings. 2% of net sales will be donated to Golden Fleece Foundation which supports charities like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

J. Crew continues with what is beginning to seem like the never-ending promotion; we are reluctant to use the word ‘sale,’ as that implies a discount on specific merchandise. This is Crew’s discount predicated upon how much one spends. J. Crew is also offering free shipping for purchases totaling $100 andmoreonline. Use promo code HOHOHO at checkout.

J Crew

Hickey-Freeman continues their sale, also offer free shipping on internet orders of $100+, with the code GSHOL. The Boy’s Navy Pinstripe is $148.50 from $195, as is the Donegal tweed. Both are the Madison model, and at these prices one can’t go wrong.

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Hickey-Freeman’s younger, trendier Hickey merchandise also provides significant discounts right now, like the Striped Crew sweater at $82 from $248.

Hickey Striped Sweater

Hart Schafner Marx is in the midst of their Semi-Annual Sale; their cotton/silk sport shirts are $40.50 from $135, absolutely heavenly to the touch.

Hart Schaffner Marx

We are surprised to see they have removed the little promotional box about President-elect Obama from their home page. This is the brand doing the tuxedo for the Inaugural festivities, and they have also done several suits Mr. Obama wears frequently.

And the upscale Bobby Jones line has some very fiscally friendly bargains, items that whisper discreetly, “Take me to your closet!” Women’s Clubs are an additional 25% off, and the Argyle Cardigan in Navy is now $147, from the original selling price of $245. Their $250 Urban Plaid Pleated Skort is now $75, available in a full range of sizes as of this writing.

We thought everyone would appreciate that news, as well as the shopping and pricing rationale from the story’s author, Melissa A. Clark:

“I’M a sucker for a sale, the kind of shopper who tallies the amount “saved” rather than spent. My arithmetic goes like this: It makes more sense to buy the $125 cashmere sweater marked down to $95 than to pay full price for the $80 one.”

The Princess has managed to wheel herself away from the table and we are now situated at the trusty iMac, ready to fulfill our vow to bring you the latest in retail offerings of a preppish nature, particularly those with a fiscally friendly disposition.

But quickly, before those dreadful Black Friday sales (heh-heh-heh), let’s give away some goodies! The Princess Consort used a random number generator to select the winner who will receive this ever-so-snappy Perfect Circles apron (and matching gloves, of course)…

Whoo-hoo! Miss Mermaid, send us your particulars, as well as your how you would like the cards personalized, and we’ll get things ready to head your way! And if you mentioned the Giveaway on your blog, do let us know so that you can send this week’s bonus gift to whomever you choose!

These happy sea creatures shout out “Happy Happy,” “Merry Merry,” and “Joyful Joyful,” just in time for your correspondence needs. We’ll be adding another treasure or two to the prize pack, so check back! Or follow us on Twitter, we’ll definitely Tweet a time or tow as this is updated.

To enter, simply leave a comment telling us one Christmas or Hanukkah wish you have. That’s it – just a comment sharing a wish.

Now on to the business at hand, starting with one of TP’s favorites:

Best & Co.

Offering simply outstanding merchandise for the next generation, Best & Company is doing 50% off everything online, like this Shoshanna for Best & Co. Sailboat Bathing Suit with a darling bow on the back.

Perfect for your annual trip to St. John over the holidays, there is also a nautical theme Shoshanna Suit for Boys:

Best & Co.

(Miss Kate, we are not even going here, you will be so tired of us harassing you!) The promo code at Best is BESTTHANKS.

The Kate Spade Black Friday promotion discounts a percentage of your purchase tied to the amount you are spending; this is only applicable at retail stores, not online. However, the online sale is nothing to scoff at, IOHO.

Kate Spade

LL Bean is repeating their promotion from previous years, spend $50 and receive a $10 gift card.

LL Bean

At Hayden-Harnett, the Thankful Sale is underway with great markdowns and free ground shipping for all online orders; the sale runs through Monday, December 1st.

Bargains include the Capri Coin Purse in loads of fun patterns and colors with some at only $14 and others at just $18.48, a great stocking stuffer that was originally $28!

And at Neiman Marcus, it appears almost everything is on sale, either an additional % off the price, or already substantially reduced as part of Last Call. Here are Neiman’s current offerings:

Save as much as 60% off* original prices in Women’s Contemporary Apparel, Sportswear, Outerwear, Dresses, Intimate Apparel, Women’s Shoes, Cashmere, Men’s, and Kids when you take an extra 30% to 40% off already-reduced sale prices.

save 30% off* all Holiday Decor

Take 1/3 off* all Bedding (INCLUDING SALE!)

These promotional prices are good for the 28th and 29th; online they end at 7am EST December 1st.

The good folks at Vineyard Vines are providing free shipping for all purchases totaling more than $50 through midnight November 30th.

At Bloomingdale’s the Big Brown Bag sale continues through Sunday at midnight, with an additional 40% Off ‘select sale merchandise,’ including this Cashmere Hat, originally $62, about $26 after all the discounts. The Big Brown sale also applies to the Home Store. For free shipping on orders more than $100, the promotion code is SHIPXMAS; this offers is good through December 19, so you may want to hide away the code.

Alexander McQueen is taking 40% off ready-wear, shoes, bags, and accessories through December. That means the oh-so-wonderful Europa Fox could have the Union Jack ankle boot for only $764 as opposed to the original price of $1280. Hhhhmmmm… we are not seeing Miss Europa traipsing around the Lake Country in these, even at their greatly reduced cost.

The Gap is offering a great BOGO (Buy One Get One) promotion for sweaters. This ends tonight in stores but runs through December 1st online.

Ends 12.1.08

It seems there is always a sale at Joseph A. Bank (indeed). Here are their Black Friday specials: